A traffic sergeant with the Guelph Police Service said many of the 31 motor vehicle collisions reported in the past 24 hours were preventable if people would drive according to the conditions.
The collisions ranged from minor fender benders to ones that caused many dollars in property damage, said Sgt. Ray Gordon of the Guelph Police.
“Mainly they were speeds too fast for the condition of the roadway,” he added. “Fortunately, there was nobody seriously injured, to my knowledge.”
Gordon said drivers need to take responsibility for their actions.
“You have to drive with the road conditions in mind,” said Gordon. “I drove around all day yesterday — both at the Remembrance Day parade and after — attending collisions without getting into a collision, and it’s because I was driving within the capabilities of myself, my vehicle and the roadways.”
Another frustration for Gordon is the people who don’t take the time to properly brush the snow off their cars.
“People hit what they can’t see,” said Gordon.
He noted that section 74 of the Highway Traffic Act states that a driver must be able to see out the front, front side and rear windows.
“Take the time to brush them off,” said Gordon.
The rear window can be covered when compensated for with mirrors, for instance with the use of a trailer.
*********************************
Wellington County OPP issued the following news release, reminding drivers how to keep roads safe and secure:
COUNTY OF WELLINGTON, ON - On the first significant snowfall of autumn 2019, Wellington County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to 37 separate motor vehicle collisions. Thankfully no one was seriously hurt. This response to winter driving conditions should remind us that snow-covered roads can limit drivers' abilities. So with this, Wellington County OPP would like to offer drivers these helpful winter driving tips.
1. Don't despair, repair: make sure your vehicle is in good operating condition and has the equipment you might need such as snow tires, emergency kit, snow brush, windshield wiper fluid etc.
2. Clear to steer: Before you get out on the road, clear the snow and ice from your vehicle. Not only can ice and snow limit your visibility it can also be hazards as it leaves your vehicle at highway speeds.
3. Doddle the throttle: Driving in a rush could mean the difference between a late arrival and an early death.
4. Don't rock the intox': Nothing new but we'll say it again, intoxicated driving kills!
5. Distractions lessen reactions: Focus on driving and avoid distractions.
6. Read the lead: Breaking earlier and using extra lead time and distance between you and the vehicle in front can help you avoid rear-ending someone.
7. Don't burn Your turn: Slower speeds through curves can help your vehicle maintain good tire contact with the road.
8. Remove the boot: when approaching intersection, where you have the right away, take your foot off the throttle and coast through. Give your self-time to watch for traffic that isn't stopping and react.
9. Back-in, drive-off: Backing into parking spaces will allow you a better view of pedestrians, pets and other vehicles when you do go to leave.
10. Address your egress: If you are involved in a collision, your vehicle can be a safe place from hazards. Decide if it's safer to exit your vehicle to a safe place or remain in your vehicle till help arrives.
Wellington County OPP would like to thank all those drivers who've made a conscious effort to be safe and responsible on our roadways.
*************************
